Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Endangered Species
Mouflon, the native wild mountain sheep, are timid, nimble and skilled at climbing. The
males have enormous curved horns and were hunted for sport by the nobles in Lusignan
times. By the early 20th century widespread shooting by farmers and hunters had nearly re-
duced them to extinction. However, awareness of the plight of the island's national emblem
increased, and now they are protected at sites such as Stavros tis Psokas forest station, in
Pafos, which shelters a small herd. In the wild, mouflon are only found in remote parts of
the mountain ranges and are rarely spotted.
Green and loggerhead turtles have bred and lived on Cypriot beaches for centuries, but
tourism and beach development has encroached on vital nesting areas. They nest in the soft
sands of the northern beaches in particular, which are now signed and closed at night
(hatching times). Look out for conservation programs in coastal areas. Follow the rules,
stick to allocated swimming times, and plant your umbrellas as close to the water's edge as
possible to avoid crushing eggs.
Monk seals are rarely spotted off the coast and had been considered extinct as recently as
10 years ago. However, sightings off the eastern coast and at Cape Greco's sea caves have
revived hope. Now it's believed a very small number still survive in remote locations
around the island's shores.
